Social Security and the Mark of the Beast

The day to step away from general society is nearer than I hoped. The world darkens by the hour. Is the mark of the beast real, symbolic, or allegorical? It must mean something significant, why else seven references to it in Revelation?

In Matthew 5, Jesus makes clear that the Light we reflect into the world should be visible to all. Not hidden by a metaphorical basket or anonymous Twitter handle. The light you seek in private must follow when you leave the safety of your home.

Every up-side has a down-side. Jesus’s earthly welcome is wearing out. Letting the world see His light in you will increasingly result in ostracism or exclusion from benefits reserved to obedient secularists (read anti-Christs).

Evil is now good and good evil.

When men disagree with God, the world elevates human preference above God’s. Humanism is the religion of the enlightened, intellectual, and progressive. Christ-followers believe that God defines good. That God doesn’t define love, but is love.

I yearn for the day I hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” (Matthew 25:21)

The alternative is unthinkable, “Depart from Me, I never knew you.” (Matthew 7:23)

When we stand at odds with Him, what does that say about us?

The Cost of Righteousness to Secular Benefits

Abortion is the accepted norm in Canada. And moving that direction in the US. You may (so far) hold an alternative position, but don’t expect to participate in benefits. As beliefs change, so are requirements to enjoy governmental largesse.

This linked article by Murray Campbell documents Canada’s requirement for written affirmation of abortion to participate in certain programs.

Murray Campbell writes, “This means that organisations will either have to bury their convictions, hide their conscience, and sign the document, or accept that they are no longer Canadians of equal footing and thus lose their funding.”

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16

That means Christ-followers can’t move about incognito. Or rationalize. Or simply fail to speak up. If showing our light glorifies God, what will He think if we purposefully hide it?

If the US government required signed statements endorsing abortion and same-sex marriage to receive Social Security and Medicare benefits, what would you do?

To echo Mr. Campbell, “This means you will either have to bury your convictions, hide your conscience, and sign the document, or accept that you are no longer citizens of equal footing and lose your benefits.”

You must take the mark. To buy, sell, or get your check.

Some will argue that Jesus would never require us to do without the necessities. They speak from hope rather than God’s Word.

“My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.” – James 1:2-4

The day to make your choice public is here, or will be soon. When tempted to dissemble or compartmentalize the secular from sacred in your own life, remember that Jesus expects our light (reflected from Him) to be readily visible.

Not hidden. Not denied. Maybe you’ll never have to choose between Social Security and Christ. Still, it’s a sobering exercise to consider in your quiet time before the Lord.

Two Different Eternal Outcomes for “Christians”

Thoughtless bravado exclaiming, “They can keep their money!” may sound noble. But is the weight of your full spirit behind it?

What if your grandchildren were hungry?

What if you needed medical care?

What if…”

There are two outcomes for self-labeled Christians,

“Well done“, and

“Depart from Me.”

The mark of the beast will be a reality. No one knows precisely how it will appear. But we’re beginning to get an idea.

Best-selling Christian author, World and National Champion horse breeder and trainer. Lover of simple things, being a daughter of the King of Kings, and sharing this amazing journey with other women of a "certain age."

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About Lynn

Best-selling author, World and National Champion horse trainer & breeder, former business consultant, motivational speaker, and serial entrepreneur. After 7 years in ministry, Lynn strives for daily obedience to God and wise stewardship of what He provides.